Certain people hold one of two extreme views of medical professionals. Some had a bad experience, perhaps a case of medical malpractice in Newnan, GA, and are now distrustful of all doctors. Others have complete faith in all doctors. It makes more sense to realize that not all healthcare professionals are equally skilled. Never be afraid to get a second opinion.
Not Every Bad Outcome Is Medical Malpractice
If humans were machines it would be easier to determine if a bad outcome is medical malpractice. If two identical engines are allowed to run without oil, both will self-destruct. The human body has been compared to a machine, but it’s a poor comparison. Each person is unique. Two people can respond very differently to the same treatment or medication.
Medical Practice Is Determined by the Standard of Care
The success of a medical malpractice claim depends upon proving that the “standard of care” was below the industry standard. In other words, the patient did not receive the same level of care that would have been provided by a reasonably competent physician. Sometimes this is easy to prove. If a surgeon leaves an instrument in the patient’s body, that is definitely not what a reasonably competent surgeon would do and is medical malpractice.
Some cases are more difficult to prove. If there is a standard treatment for a medical issue but a doctor tries a new treatment that doesn’t work, is that medical malpractice?
- Was the patient fully aware of the risks?
- Is there scientific research supporting this new and different treatment?
- Had previous patients had a successful outcome with this treatment?
While many people would be willing to try a new treatment if everything else has been tried and failed, few want to be guinea pigs unless there are no other options. Determining whether or not a particular person’s injury or death is a case of medical malpractice can become extremely complicated.
Each case of medical malpractice in Newnan, GA involves both complex medical and legal issues. Diane M. Sternlieb has professional experience in medicine and law. Her experience as a registered nurse gives her a unique depth of understanding of medical issues. Ms. Sternlieb partners with Curtis Thurston, a top medical malpractice attorney, on lengthy and challenging cases. For each client, she fights diligently for the best result possible. Visit Website Domain to schedule a consultation.
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